Akiyoshi Kaneko, manager of the Capsule & Sauna Century Shibuya hotel, prepares a capsule room on Oct. 29 in Tokyo. The capsule hotel concept has been around for at least 30 years, starting out as lodging for businessmen who needed a cheap place to stay after working or partying late and missing the last commuter train home. Shizuo Kambayashi, AP

The Capsule & Sauna Century Shibuya hotel is lit against nighttime Tokyo. Budget travelers and others curious about the unique lodging experience have been using the hotels. Shizuo Kambayashi, AP

The public bath at the hotel is bigger than a capsule. Shizuo Kambayashi, AP

Manager Akiyoshi Kaneko peers into one of the tiny sleeping capsules. The tube-like pods, barely bigger than a coffin, offer a bed for the night at low cost. The deluxe sleeping capsule costs $50. Shizuo Kambayashi, AP

Akiyoshi Kaneko peers inside one of the tiny rooms, which is outfitted with a small television set, a light and alarm clock. Shizuo Kambayashi, AP